Image courtesy of Igus
A safe energy supply with highly dynamic cable travel is particularly important for machines with confined spaces. In an attempt to service this need, igus has developed the small-sized E2.10 energy chain from the E2.1 series. The e-chain has an inner height of one centimeter and an outer height of one and a half centimeters. The chain links consist of one bottom and side part, as well as one crossbar. The e-chain can be opened from both the top and the side with a screw driver. Products from the E2.1 series also have a stop-dog for greater unsupported length, higher fill weight and less overall weight than their e-chain counterparts. The “brake” on the stop-dog of the links is designed to enable quiet-running properties, targeting automatic doors, vehicles or medical furniture applications.
According to the company, there is a demand for a lighter, more durable e-chain series for demanding applications. E-chains are commonly used in environments near metal chips, coolants, lubricants, high heat, and abrasives. To be more cable-friendly, e-chains must have smooth interior contours. Separators with rounded edges are offered to extend the service life of hoses and cables even further. An integrated grid marking is also provided on the crossbars to assist with precise mounting of the separators.
Of course, your e-chain is only as good as the cable you have in it. Cables are sometimes thought of similar to “jelly bean parts”, standard off-the-shelf components which don’t get much thought during specification. However, special motion cables are available which are specifically designed to withstand repetitious torsional and bending strain. Damaged or broken conductors within your cables can lead to downtime, power loss, damage to machines, errors, and even fire.
For more on motion cables, check out How 'Cheaping Out' on Cables Could Cost You.